Liverpool reject Salzburg’s offer for young midfielder Bobby Clark

Liverpool have turned down a multimillion-pound bid from Red Bull Salzburg for young midfielder Bobby Clark. The Reds view the 19-year-old as a long-term asset after he had caught the attention of several clubs.

According to ECHO, the Reds have rejected a £6m bid from RB Salzburg for the midfielder who joined the Merseysiders from Newcastle United in June 2021. Clark’s form has not gone unspotted, though. Norwich City, Leeds United, Sheffield United, and Coventry City are showing interest in taking the midfielder to their respective clubs.

There has also been interest from across the border, with Scottish giants Celtic and Rangers looking at a potential deal to bring him to the Premiership. Clark had made a good impression with his performances on his way up through the Liverpool academy, and that kind of performance marked him out as one of the young lads who seemed to have a great future ahead at the club. There is very little doubt that he’s one of the players with the highest ceilings among the youngsters coming up at the moment. Clearly enough, the Reds won’t rush any decisions over his future. [ via – The Athletic – subscription required ]

Clark set to stay?

The rejection of Salzburg’s bid gives a clear indication of Liverpool’s intention to retain Clark—maybe even as a first-team player shortly. After all, Jurgen Klopp assured the player of a clear path to the first team when he first joined the Reds from the Magpies three seasons ago.

But it’s not only Clark who has caused a transfer frenzy. Tyler Morton, who spent last season on loan at Hull, also sees himself watched by RB Leipzig and Atalanta, the recent Europa League champions. His displays have been watched by the European clubs, and this is an indication that he could well turn out to be something big.

Interest from the RBS camp sees itself being driven by manager Pep Lijnders. Sure that name rings a bell or two. Much of the credit for Salzburg’s interest in signing Clark will go to Lijnders, who MAYBE, MAYBE knows one or two things about Liverpool’s youth setup and is fully aware of what the player can do.

Turning down the bid for Clark, Liverpool has made a decision that is part of a broader strategy regarding young blood. The Anfield club has a perfect history of shaping young talent. We also seem keen on having such players fit into our plans for the future. Keeping prospects like Clark and Morton close also provides Liverpool with a pipeline of ready talent at its beck and call.

Salzburg, now managed by former Liverpool assistant manager Pepijn Lijnders are well aware of Clark’s potential. The youngster took his chances well at Anfield last season, and staying put on Merseyside is the right move for his development.

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As Liverpool look to remain competitive in years to come, finding the right development environment for these players will become very important. Let’s see how things go on for the Reds in the future.